Specifically designed for conference speakers this course teaches the essential skills required to stand-up and present before an audience of any size. Training is given using a choice of media:
 | For those students able to bring a Laptop PC with PowerPoint installed, tuition will be tailored to use this method. A basic knowledge of PowerPoint is assumed. |
| For those students without access to a Laptop PC, all parts of the course can be completed using an Overhead Projector (OHP) with transparencies. All equipment and materials are supplied. |
The emphasis of the course is very much on practical experience. Every opportunity is taken to give students the chance to practice for real by standing up and giving presentations in a non-threatening environment. Feedback is given both on an individual and group basis. This feedback is the key factor in highlighting areas for improvement and development. Feedback is always honest and constructive. Presentations are filmed and all students get to take away a VHS tape or DVD showing their progress through the course. This recording also includes the one-hour long "Giving an effective presentation" given by one of the course instructors for review and reference. A number of exercises are inserted at key points throughout the course to illustrate and reinforce key concepts.
Of the many presentation skills courses available this is the only one developed especially for technical and management professionals who need to speak at a conference. It is also one of the few courses arranged over a weekend in order to not disrupt the busy working schedules of attendees. This is also one of the few courses given by active practitioners on the conference speaking circuit.
| The course has been under continuous development since the early nineties, having been run on a regular basis since 1991. Of the students already graduated many have gone on to present at major conferences; some have won prizes; nearly all have given a presentation in some shape or form. |
A structured method for building and delivering a presentation is provided for all students. This structure is applicable to all presenters from novice through to expert.
Courses are run with a strict limit of six students. Two tutors are on hand throughout the course to assure personally tailored tuition for each student.
Both tutors have more than twenty years of presenting experience in the UK and abroad. Both have won awards for their presentations; both continue to present on a regular basis and bring the benefits of this on-going experience to the course.
Many of the courses are held over a weekend, and partners are encouraged to stay at the hotel at no extra cost.
To teach the essential elements involved in preparing and giving an effective presentation
To allow course participants to gain practical experience in giving presentations
To improve the confidence of all course attendees in giving presentations
To teach the course in a relaxed and non-threatening environment
To ensure that the course is enjoyable
Student pre-requisites
None. No previous presenting experience is assumed.
The lack of prerequisites should not deter experienced presenters looking to polish up their skills. This course covers a number of advanced techniques and all attendees are guaranteed to learn something new.
Students intending to bring a laptop should have a basic working knowledge of PowerPoint. Time will not permit detailed training in this software.
Tutor Profiles
Chris Fennessy
Chris is a consultant and trainer with many years experience, Chris's specialty is in technical IT presentations. Two times winner of the UKCMG best annual paper, Chris is a regular on the presentation circuit.
Dave Claridge
Dave is an independent Consultant specializing in IT infrastructure management and has been presenting at conferences for many years. Dave is a regular on the conference speaking circuit.
Courses are usually held at the Hilton Brighton Metropole.
Other locations may be used for the convenience of students.